Nestled in a repurposed school in South Philly, this cozy yet industrial bakery serves top-notch pastries that are definitely worth the wait.
"South Philly’s Machine Shop Boulangerie is easy to find—just peep the line forming on the first floor of the Bok Building. This French-leaning bakery is only open Thursday through Sunday, but the apple and oat danishes, crispy-edged lemon tarts, and everything croissants stuffed with pistachio cream cheese are worth crossing the city on a weekend morning. Their strong suit is laminated dough, so follow the flakes when you order." - candis mclean, alison kessler
"South Philly’s Machine Shop Boulangerie is easy to find—just peep the line forming on the first floor of the Bok Building. This French-leaning bakery is only open Thursday through Sunday, but the apple and oat danishes, crispy-edged lemon tarts, and everything croissants stuffed with pistachio cream cheese are worth crossing the city on a weekend morning. Their strong suit is laminated dough, so follow the flakes when you order." - candis mclean, alison kessler
"If you’re looking to surprise the chocolate lovers in your family or friend group, Machine Shop (located in the Bok Building) has you covered. Among its delectable offerings are a chocolate caramel pecan tart and an assortment of other chocolate treats, including double chocolate pain au chocolat, milk chocolate praline cake, and a twice-baked chocolate hazelnut croissant." - George Banks-Weston
"Machine Shop’s traditional French pastries are ultra-fresh and expertly laminated. Every pastry from this bakery in South Philly’s Bok Building has a delicate, crusty exterior that gives way to airy, buttery layers. The most popular item here is the croissant, naturellement, but if you’re looking for a more savory breakfast, snag the jammy egg pastry with mushrooms and Gouda. Doors open at 9 a.m. Thursday through Sunday." - Ernest Owens, Kae Lani Palmisano
"When the retail cafe of the Machine Shop pop-up opened in the beginning of 2022, lines formed out the door instantly. Eager Philadelphians gathered at the Bok Building to get a taste of pastry chef Emily Riddell’s quince kouign amann, twice-baked almond croissants, lemon tarts with toasted meringue, and sourdough breads. Every pastry at Machine Shop is worth the wait. Just get there on the early side — Riddell frequently sells out." - Ernest Owens, Eater Staff